Cosmetic Dermatologist Miami

Mohs Micrographic Surgery in Miami, FL

What is it?

Developed in the 1930s by Dr. Frederick Mohs, Mohs micrographic surgery is a highly precise and effective treatment for various types of skin cancer. It is considered the gold standard for skin cancer removal due to its accuracy, high cure rates, and cosmetically favorable outcomes. Our experienced surgical team specializes in performing Mohs surgery with meticulous technique and care.

What to Expect during Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Our dedicated Mohs surgeons focus exclusively on skin cancer treatment, removing all cancerous tissue layer by layer. This method ensures complete tumor removal, including cancer cells often missed by other procedures. The tissue is examined microscopically during surgery until no malignant cells remain. This precision preserves healthy tissue, leading to better cosmetic results and a high cure rate. Once the cancer is fully removed, treatment is complete, giving you confidence in being cancer-free.

After the Procedure

Mohs Micrographic Surgery boasts over a 99% five-year cure rate for new skin cancers. Recovery is generally quicker than other methods, with healing typically taking 2-4 weeks. After tumor removal, reconstructive techniques are often used to close the wound and optimize appearance.

Other Skin Cancer Treatment Options

  • Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A light-sensitive agent is applied to the lesion and activated by a specialized light to destroy cancer cells.

  • Excisional Surgery: Cancer is surgically cut out with a margin of healthy tissue and the area is closed with stitches.

  • Curettage-Electrodesiccation: The tumor is scraped off, then treated with a high-frequency current to destroy remaining cancer and control bleeding.

  • Radiation Therapy: Focused X-rays or electron beams target cancer cells while protecting healthy tissue.

  • Laser Surgery: CO2 or erbium YAG lasers vaporize or cut away cancerous tissue.

  • Cryosurgery: Liquid nitrogen freezes the tumor, causing it to slough off after treatment.

  • Lymph Node Dissection: In some melanomas, nearby lymph nodes are removed and examined for cancer spread.

Additional Diagnostic and Treatment Options

  • Short Term Mole Monitoring: Digital imaging tracks suspicious moles over time to detect early melanoma while avoiding unnecessary biopsies.

  • Dermoscopy (ELM): A handheld microscope magnifies skin lesions to differentiate benign from malignant growths, improving early melanoma detection.

  • Topical Medications: Creams like 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and imiquimod treat actinic keratoses and some superficial basal cell carcinomas.

  • Advanced Treatments: Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or biochemotherapy may be used for advanced melanoma cases.

Contact us at Cosmetic Dermatology Miami today to discuss your skin cancer concerns and explore personalized treatment options with our expert dermatology team.

Schedule your appointment now!

Molluscum Contagiosum Treatment

What is it?

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection that causes small, smooth, flesh-colored bumps. These bumps are usually painless but can sometimes itch or become irritated. They often appear in clusters and may spread to other parts of the body or to other people through direct skin contact or by touching contaminated objects. While the bumps typically disappear on their own within 6 to 12 months, some cases can last longer or require medical treatment to speed healing or prevent spread.

What causes it?

The condition is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus, which spreads easily through skin-to-skin contact or contact with items like towels, clothing, or sports equipment that have touched infected skin. It is particularly common in children between 1 and 10 years old due to their frequent close contact during play. People with eczema or dry, cracked skin are more susceptible because their skin barrier is compromised. Athletes involved in contact sports and sexually active adults are also at increased risk. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems may experience more widespread or persistent infections.

Common treatments

Though molluscum contagiosum often resolves without intervention, treatment can help clear bumps faster and reduce the risk of spreading. One of the most common treatments is cantharidin, a topical blistering agent derived from blister beetles. Applied by a dermatologist, it causes a blister to form under the bump, which helps the lesion fall off naturally within a couple of weeks. Cryotherapy, which uses extreme cold to freeze the bumps, and curettage, a gentle scraping technique, are other effective methods. For patients with many or resistant bumps, pulsed dye laser therapy may be recommended. Treatment choice depends on the number of lesions, their location, patient age, and overall health.

Our approach & expertise

At Miami Cosmetic Dermatology, we understand that molluscum contagiosum can be frustrating and impact your confidence. Our experienced dermatologists provide personalized, compassionate care to treat and manage this condition safely and effectively. We tailor treatments to your unique needs and support you through the healing process to restore healthy skin.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment if you suspect you or your child has molluscum contagiosum. We’re here to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

Schedule your appointment now!